According to a study released Friday Southern California is overdue for a major earthquake along the San Andreas fault.
The long-awaited study came after scientists spent years studying the geology of the Carrizo Plain area of the San Andreas, which is about 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles. It found that earthquakes along the San Andreas fault have occurred far more often than previously believed.
One researcher commented: “People should not stick their heads in the ground. There are storm clouds gathered on the horizon. Does that mean it’s definitely going to rain? No, but when you have that many clouds, you think, ‘I’m going to take my umbrella with me today.’ That’s what this research does: It gives us a chance to prepare.”
Preparing means a few things:
1. Getting the facts. Understand what can happen in your area and what affect it could have on you.
2. Learn about what resources are available in your area if a disaster should strike
3. Make a plan. Talk to your family and make a plan as to what you will do in the event of an emergency. Will you shelter in place? Will you need to evacuate? If so…where will you go and what route will you take? Have your plan include what you will do if you are apart.
4. Consider buying an earthquake kit or other emergency preparedness kit. Now is the time…don’t wait until something happens to figure out you don’t have the supplies you need.
While many studies are being done….earthquakes don’t give advance warning. They can strike at anytime. Taking some time to prepare now can pay off in dividends later.